Why Boats Sink at the Dock

Below is a breakdown of statistically why boats sink at the dock according to BoatUS.

• 50% - Failure of underwater fittings
• 32% - Inundated by rain or snow
• 9% - Failure of fittings above the waterline
• 8% - Poor docking arrangements
• 1% - Other

Five things that you can do today to keep your boat from sinking:

1. Check your thru-hull fittings and seacocks or valves to be sure they are not cracked or corroded
2. Service seacocks or replace valves if they do not open or close easily or if the handle has come off or been damaged
3. Check all below waterline hoses and replace any that are more than 10 years old or that are cracked, bulging, or have soft spots
4. Replace corroded hose clamps using only high quality stainless steel, embossed hose clamps
5. Check your stuffing box or shaft seal and be sure it shows no sign of leakage when the motor is not running.  

Source: BoatUS